The 3-step approach for the treatment of multisegmental thoraco-abdominal aortic pathologies

Open in a separate window OBJECTIVESThe goal of this study was to describe our 3-step approach to treat multisegmental thoraco-abdominal aortic disease due to aortic dissection and to present our initial clinical results.METHODSNine patients with multisegmental thoraco-abdominal aortic pathology due to aortic dissection underwent our 3-step approach, which consisted of total aortic arch replacement via the frozen elephant trunk technique, thoracic endovascular aortic repair for distal extension down to the level of the thoraco-abdominal transition and, finally, open thoraco-abdominal aortic replacement for the remaining downstream aortic segments. We assessed their baseline and aortic characteristics, previous aortic procedures, intraoperative details, clinical outcomes and follow-up data.RESULTSThe median age was 58 (42–66) years; 4 patients (44%) presented connective tissue disease. Eight patients (89%) had undergone previous aortic surgery for aortic dissection. In-hospital mortality was 0% (n = 0). None suffered symptomatic spinal cord injury or disabling stroke. During the follow-up period, 1 patient died of acute biliary septic shock 6 months after thoraco-abdominal aortic replacement.CONCLUSIONSThe 3-step approach to treat multisegmental thoraco-abdominal aortic pathology due to aortic dissection, which involves applying both open and endovascular techniques, is associated with an excellent clinical outcome and low perioperative risk. Distal shifting of the disease process through the thoracic endovascular aortic repair extension—and thereby necessitating limited open thoraco-abdominal aortic repair—seems to be the major factor enabling these favourable results.IRB approvalIRB approval was obtained (No. 425/15) from the institutional review board of the University of Freiburg.     

Simultaneous transcatheter treatment of ascending aortic aneurysm with aortic and mitral regurgitation: an in vitro study

 Open in a separate windowOBJECTIVESWe sought to explore the efficacy of the endovascular repair of an ascending aortic aneurysm with aortic and mitral regurgitation by 2 novel valved stents.METHODSWe established models of ascending aortic aneurysms combined with aortic and mitral regurgitation in 10 pig hearts, then implanted self-expanding aortic fenestrated and mitral valved stents via the transapical approach. We applied a fluoroscopy-guided in vitro setting to test the approach, then analysed continuous circulating flushing at 37°C. Finally, we determined operating times, echocardiography and changes of coronary flow as well as fenestration alignment with the coronary ostia.RESULTSThis approach resulted in a 100% overall technical success rate, excellent handling properties and precise positioning. The time taken to implant the 2 valved stents was 59 ± 12 min. Flow of the left and right coronary arteries did not significantly decrease after the stents were implanted (330.4 ± 12.06 ml/min vs 289.4 ± 5.29 ml/min, P < 0.001; 376.8 ± 10.5 ml/min vs 350.0 ± 14.5 ml/min; P < 0.001). We found no obvious regurgitation and perivalvular leakage; nor did the gradients of the aortic and mitral valves as well as of the left ventricular outflow tract increase significantly. The final angiographic examination and profile of the coronary opening confirmed the good position of the valved stents, the exclusion of the aneurysm and the patency of both coronary arteries.CONCLUSIONSThese findings indicate the potential for combined transcatheter aortic root and mitral valve replacement in treating aortic root pathologies. In future, in vivo studies are expected to validate this approach and ascertain its durability.     

Downstream thoracic endovascular aortic repair following zone 2, 100-mm stent graft frozen elephant trunk implantation

Open in a separate window OBJECTIVESThe aim of this study was to analyse outcomes of downstream thoracic endovascular aortic repair (TEVAR) following the frozen elephant trunk (FET) procedure.METHODSSixty-six patients underwent downstream TEVAR following the FET procedure to treat thoracic aortic dissections (n = 42, 64%), aneurysms (n = 19, 29%) or penetrating aortic ulcers involving the aortic arch (n = 5, 8%). Patient and outcome characteristics were analysed.RESULTSDownstream TEVAR was performed 7 [interquartile range: 2–18] months after the FET procedure in 39 male (59%) and 27 female (41%) patients aged 68 [interquartile range: 56, 75] years, including 11 patients (17%) with a connective tissue disease. Before TEVAR, cerebrospinal fluid drainage was put in place in 61 patients (92%). Patients were treated with 1 stent graft (n = 28, 42%), 2 stent grafts (n = 37, 56%) or 3 stent grafts (n = 1, 2%). The femoral artery was accessed through surgical cut-down (n = 15, 23%) or percutaneously (n = 49, 74%). One patient (2%) developed a temporary spinal cord injury that resolved spontaneously. No case of permanent spinal cord injury, stroke or death was observed. After 12 [interquartile range: 2–23] months, 15 patients required an additional aortic reintervention (endovascular: n = 6; surgical: n = 9).CONCLUSIONSDownstream TEVAR following the FET procedure is associated with excellent clinical outcomes. We thus maintain that staging thoracic aortic repair—FET and secondary TEVAR—is a very successful and safe strategy. Certain patients might need a tertiary procedure to fix their entire aortic pathology; therefore, they will require long-term continuous follow-up, ideally in a dedicated aortic clinic.     

Endovascular aortic arch repair with a pre-cannulated double-fenestrated physician-modified stent graft: a benchtop experiment

 Open in a separate windowOBJECTIVESThe critical step in total endovascular aortic arch repair is to ensure alignment of fenestrations with, and thus maintenance of flow to, supra-aortic trunks. This experimental study evaluates the feasibility and accuracy of a double-fenestrated physician-modified endovascular graft [single common large fenestration for the brachiocephalic trunk and left common carotid artery and a distal small fenestration for left subclavian artery (LSA) with a preloaded guidewire for the LSA] for total endovascular aortic arch repair.METHODSEight fresh human cadaveric thoracic aortas were harvested. Thoracic endografts with a physician-modified double fenestration were deployed for total endovascular aortic arch repair in a bench test model. A guidewire was preloaded through the distal fenestration for the LSA. All experiments were undertaken in a hybrid room under fluoroscopic guidance with subsequent angioscopy and open evaluation for assessment.RESULTSMean aortic diameter in zone 0 was 31.3 ± 3.33 mm. Mean duration for stent graft modification was 20.1 ± 5.8 min. Mean duration of the procedure was 24 ± 8.6 min. The Medtronic Valiant Captivia stent graft was used in 6 and the Cook Alpha Zenith thoracic stent graft in 2 cases. LSA catheterization was technically successful with supra-aortic trunk patency in 100% of cases.CONCLUSIONSThe use of a double-fenestrated stent graft with a preloaded guidewire appears to be a useful technical addition to facilitate easy and correct alignment of stent graft fenestrations with supra-aortic trunk origins.     

Multicentre experience with an iliac fenestrated device

 Open in a separate windowOBJECTIVESThe aim of this study was to present a multicentre experience of technical results and mid-term follow-up using a custom-made iliac fenestrated device (Terumo Aortic, Inchinnan, Renfrewshire, UK) for the treatment of iliac aneurysms and endoleaks.METHODSA multicentre retrospective evaluation of 22 patients (3–12 per institution) with either an iliac artery aneurysm or endoleak treated with an iliac fenestrated device was performed. Data were gathered from 3 departments of vascular and endovascular surgery at 3 European institutions.RESULTSTen of the included patients (45.5%) were treated for an endoleak and 12 had aorto-iliac aneurysms (54.5%). Two patients underwent bilateral fenestrated device implantation for a total of 24 devices included in this analysis. Primary technical success was 91.7% (22 of 24 implanted devices). One of the 24 internal iliac arteries could not be cannulated and was covered (primary assisted technical success rate 95.8%) and 1 patient required a relining of the stent graft due to a mid-grade stenosis opposite the internal iliac artery fenestration. Survival at the last available follow-up (mean 15.2 ± 12.0 months, range 0.5–36.6 months) was 90.9%.CONCLUSIONSThe present investigation adds to a growing body of literature on custom-made endografts and their usefulness in achieving endovascular repair without compromising blood flow via important arterial branch vessels, such as the internal iliac artery. It presents encouraging technical and mid-term follow-up data from consecutive patients treated for iliac aneurysms or endoleaks using this custom-made device. The technique may help avoid adverse sequelae associated to a coil-and-cover approach when iliac branch devices are not feasible.     

Endovascular treatment of traumatic aortic rupture using iliac extension stent-grafts in patients with small aortic diameters

Open in a separate window OBJECTIVESTo evaluate outcomes after thoracic endovascular aortic repair in young patients sustaining traumatic blunt aortic injury (BAI) using iliac extension stent-grafts because of small aortic diameters measuring <24 mm.METHODSRetrospective analysis regarding clinical presentation, trauma management, endovascular techniques and outcome of patients with a small descending aorta involving an iliac extension stent-graft to treat traumatic BAI.RESULTSAmong 48 patients who suffered a BAI and underwent thoracic endovascular aortic repair, 7 received iliac extension stent-grafts. They were 27.4/[standard deviation (SD): −13.1] years old and 6 out of 7 were male. The iliac extension stent-graft was used as distal stent-graft, and a thoracic stent-graft was used in most patients as proximal extension. We achieved overall technical success in all patients during a procedure lasting 92.6 (SD: 54.9) min. One patient died 2 days after the endovascular procedure of hypoxic brain injury, and another died after 17 days of liver failure. That patient had also suffered a spinal cord injury following the procedure, as the stent-graft had been deployed in Ishimaru Zone 2, and the carotid to subclavian bypass had to be omitted because of his critical condition. Control computed tomographic angiographs was available in 6 patients after 7.7 (SD: 5.1) days and showed no endoleak. The surviving patients were discharged after 18.4 (SD: 13.4) days.CONCLUSIONSTreating traumatic BAI using iliac extension stent-grafts in young patients with small aortic diameters is feasible. We observed no mortality caused by the BAI or related to endovascular therapy within this small patient cohort.     

False lumen enhancement characteristics on computed tomography angiography predict risk of aneurysm formation in acute type B aortic dissection

 Open in a separate windowOBJECTIVESDifferential luminal enhancement [between true lumen (TL) and false lumen (FL)] results from differential flow patterns, most likely due to outflow restriction in the FL. We aimed to assess the impact of differential luminal enhancement at baseline computed tomography angiography on the risk of adverse events in patients with acute type B aortic dissection (TBAD).METHODSBaseline computed tomography angiographies of patients with acute TBAD between 2007 and 2016 (n = 48) were analysed using three-dimensional software at multiple sites along the descending thoraco-abdominal aorta. At each location, we measured contrast density in TL and FL [Houndsfield unit (HU)], maximal diameter (cm) and circumferential FL extent (°). Outcome data were collected via retrospective chart review. Multivariable logistic regression models were employed to determine the independent risk of TL–FL differential luminal enhancement on aneurysm formation (maximal diameter ≥55 mm) and medical treatment failure.RESULTSPatients were predominately male (75%) and 52.8±12.9 years at diagnosis. The mean follow-up was 5.9±2.6 years, and 42% (n = 20/48) patients were diagnosed with thoraco-abdominal aortic aneurysm. The baseline absolute difference between FL and TL contrast density measured at 2 cm distal to primary entry tear (TL–FL_abs-Tear) was significantly higher among patients who developed aneurysm (26 HU, IQR: 15–53 vs 13 HU, IQR: 4–24, P = 0.001). Aneurysm development during follow-up was predicted by TL–FL_abs-Tear (odds ratio 1.07, P = 0.012) and baseline maximal aortic diameter (odds ratio 1.90, P < 0.001). High (≥18 HU) differential luminal enhancement was associated with lower rates of aneurysm-free survival and higher rates of medical treatment failure.CONCLUSIONSDifferential luminal enhancement may be a novel predictor of aneurysm formation among patients with acute TBAD.     

Pulmonary artery diameter: means and normal limits—assessment by computed tomography angiography

Open in a separate window OBJECTIVESNormal pulmonary artery (PA) diameter remains blurred and the definitions of PA aneurysm are heterogenous. We aimed to assess PA diameters, identify a threshold for normal diameters, define PA aneurysms, possible predictors of PA size and evaluate the correlation with mid-ascending aortic diameters.METHODSBetween April 2018 and August 2019, 497 consecutive patients who underwent whole-body computed tomographic angiography were reviewed. Clinical and imaging data were collected from our institutional database. Precise three-dimensional centreline measurements were taken. Linear regression analysis was performed to detect parameters associated with PA diameter. A two-stage model was created to identify potential predictors and the resulting statistically significant interactions were tested. Data were grouped and PA, standard deviation, and upper normal limits were calculated.RESULTSAmong 497 patients with an average age of 51.4 (20.2) (74.6% males), the mean PA diameter measured 32.0 (4.6) mm [female: 31.2 (4.7) mm vs male: 32.2 (4.5) mm; P = 0.032]. The mean PA length, left PA and right PA diameters were similar between male and female patients. We found a significant correlation (r = 0.352; P < 0.001) between the PAs and mid-ascending aortic diameters. Body surface area (P = 0.032, β =  4.52 [0.40; 8.64] 95% CI) was the only significant influencing variable for PA diameter.CONCLUSIONSThe normal mean PA diameter in a reference cohort is 32.0 (4.6) mm. Body surface area is the only influencing variable of PA diameter. The normal diameters measured and corresponding upper limits of normal revealed that a PA aneurysm should not be considered below a threshold of 45 mm.     

Left heart growth and biventricular repair after hybrid palliation

 Open in a separate windowOBJECTIVESWe evaluated the outcomes of biventricular repair after initial hybrid palliation performed in small infants with various forms of left ventricle hypoplasia.METHODSBetween September 2010 and January 2020, a total of 27 patients had biventricular repair after hybrid palliation at a median age of 11 days. Indications for the hybrid approach included growth promotion of the left ventricle outflow tract and/or the aortic valve in 14 patients and that of the left ventricle in 13 patients. Seven reinterventions and 7 reoperations were performed during the interstage period. Significant growth of left ventricle parameters was noted during the median interstage period of 62 days. Sixteen subjects had aortic arch repair, ventricular septal defect closure and relief of subaortic stenosis; 5 patients had the Ross–Konno procedure; 5 patients underwent the Yasui procedure; and 1 patient had unbalanced atrioventricular septal defect and aortic arch repair.RESULTSTwenty-three patients (85.2%) are alive at a median follow-up of 3.3 years. Two and 3 patients died early and late after achieving biventricular circulation, respectively. There were 22 reinterventions and 15 reoperations after biventricular repair.CONCLUSIONSHybrid palliation can stimulate left heart growth in some patients with left ventricle hypoplasia. More patients may eventually achieve biventricular circulation than was initially thought. Additional interventions and operations are foreseeable. Despite ventricular rehabilitation, some patients with borderline left ventricles may develop restrictive physiology.     

Endovascular treatment of the dissected proximal aortic arch: a systematic review

 Open in a separate windowOBJECTIVESSurgical repair of aortic dissection involving the proximal aortic arch is associated with higher morbidity and mortality, in particular when elderly high-risk patients are concerned. Endovascular treatments for this disease are under evaluation and some reports exist. We investigated the current use of catheter-based treatments for the dissected proximal aortic arch repair. METHODSWe searched in PubMed and MEDLINE databases up to the end of June 2020 for studies on endovascular treatment of the dissected proximal aortic arch. Data on demographic, procedure and stent graft (SG) details, access route, mortality with cause of death, complications and follow-up were extracted. A systematic review on the employed technology, procedure and outcome was performed.RESULTSA total number of 15 articles (13 retrospective reports and 2 case reports) were deemed eligible and were included in the study. In total, 140 patients (mean age: 56.7 years in 106 cases) received endovascular treatments for the dissected proximal aortic arch (unspecific aortic dissection: 14; acute and subacute type A aortic dissection: 88; chronic type A aortic dissection: 23; type B aortic dissection with retrograde type A dissection: 15). The procedure strategy included unspecific thoracic endovascular aorta repair (TEVAR) (n = 8), TEVAR + supra-aortic debranching (n = 2), TEVAR + cervical bypass (n = 8), TEVAR + periscope SG (n = 12), TEVAR + chimney graft (n = 8), TEVAR + branched SG (n = 21) and TEVAR + fenestration (n = 81). Procedural success rate was 95.6% for 116 reported cases. Complications included endoleaks (postoperative: 2; late: 5), stroke (n = 4), late SG-induced new entry (n = 3) and new false lumen formation (n = 1). Hospital mortality was 5% (6 cases) in 13 reports (120 patients). The mean follow-up time was 26.2 ± 29.4 months and 2 patients died during follow-up.CONCLUSIONSAs an alternative to surgery for high-risk patients with a dissected proximal aortic arch, the endovascular treatment seems to be promising in highly selected cases. Further studies with long-term results and specifically designed devices are required to standardize this approach.     

Total aortic arch replacement using the J-graft open stent graft for distal aortic arch aneurysm: report from two centres in Japan

Open in a separate window OBJECTIVESThe open-style stent graft technique has been changing the strategy for true distal arch aneurysms extending to the descending aorta. Our mid-term results of surgical repair using a J-graft open stent graft are presented.METHODSBetween May 2015 and June 2020, 69 patients with a distal arch aneurysm (53 males, median age 74 years) underwent total arch replacement combined with J-graft open stent deployment. All 59 surviving patients were followed for a median follow-up period of 1.8 (0.6–3.6) years.RESULTSAntegrade deployment was successfully performed in all patients without any difficulties. The deployed device was securely fixed at the target area, and it initiated thrombus formation. The diameter of the excluded aneurysm was decreased in 54 patients (91.5%) during the follow-up period. There were no type I endoleaks, but there were 3 type II endoleaks; 2 of the 3 type II endoleaks disappeared during the follow-up period. Additional endovascular operations were performed in 3 patients. There were 10 in-hospital deaths (14.5%), and the incidences of stroke, spinal cord injury and distal embolism were 11.6%, 5.8% and 2.9%, respectively. The 1- and 3-year survival rates were 84.8% and 79.4%, respectively, and the 1- and 3-year freedom from reintervention rates were 97.2% and 81.3%, respectively.CONCLUSIONSThe J-graft open stent graft was easy to deploy, and it could shift the distal anastomosis to a more proximal side. The mid-term performance of this device was good. It has the potential to provide one-stage repair.     

Outcome of the frozen elephant trunk procedure as a redo operation

 Open in a separate windowOBJECTIVESThe goal of this study was to determine the outcome of patients undergoing an elective frozen elephant trunk (FET) procedure as a redo operation following previous cardiac surgery.METHODSOne hundred and eighteen consecutive patients underwent FET procedures between October 2010 and October 2019 at our centre. Patients were registered in a dedicated database and analysed retrospectively. Clinical and follow-up characteristics were compared between patients undergoing a FET operation as a primary (primary group) or a redo procedure (redo group) using logistic regression and Cox regression analysis. Emergency procedures (n = 33) were excluded from the analysis.RESULTSA total of 36.5% (n = 31) of the FET procedures were redo operations (redo group) and 63.5% (n = 54) of the patients underwent primary surgery (primary group). There was no significant difference in the 30-day mortality [primary group: 7.4%; redo group: 3.2%; 95% confidence interval (CI) (0.19–35.29); P = 0.63] and the 3-year mortality [primary group: 22.2%; redo group: 16.7%; 95% CI (0.23–3.23); P = 0.72] between redo and primary cases. Furthermore, the adjusted statistical analysis did not reveal significant differences between the groups in the occurrence of transient or permanent neurological deficit, paraplegia, acute renal failure and resternotomy. The redo group showed a higher rate of recurrent nerve palsy, which did not reach statistical significance [primary group: 3.7% (n = 2); redo group: 19.4% (n = 6); P = 0.091].CONCLUSIONSElective FET procedures as redo operations performed by a dedicated aortic team following previous cardiac surgery demonstrate an adequate safety profile.     

Influence of measurement and sizing techniques in thoracic endovascular aortic repair on outcome in acute complicated type B aortic dissections

Open in a separate window OBJECTIVESThoracic endovascular aortic repair (TEVAR) is the first-line therapy in acute complicated type B aortic dissections (cTBAD). Nevertheless, no evidence-based consensus on the optimal measurement technique and sizing for TEVAR in cTBAD exists. The aim was to evaluate how different measurement and sizing techniques for TEVAR affect long-term outcomes.METHODSRetrospective analysis investigating the association between sizing and postoperative results after TEVAR in patients with cTBAD, treated between January 2003 and December 2020. Diameter measurements were performed perpendicular to a centreline in pre-interventional Computed tomography angiographies. Oversizing was determined by measuring aortic diameter in zone 2 of the aortic arch in relation to the implanted stent graft, and categorized into 2 sizing groups (≤10% and >10%). The primary outcome was freedom from aortic-related events. Secondary outcomes included mortality and a comparison of 3 alternative measurement techniques considering the estimated pre-dissection diameter.RESULTSFifty-seven patients (median age 69, interquartile range 59.6–78.2 years) were included. Stent graft oversizing by ≤10% showed a trend towards fewer aortic-related events hazard ratio 0.455 (95% confidence interval 0.128–1.624, P = 0.225).The 3 measurement techniques using the pre-dissection aortic diameter differed by a mean of 1.7–4.0 mm with a variability of up to 8.4 mm. In none of the 57 patients, the same stent graft would have been chosen based on the different measurement techniques using an oversizing ≤10%.CONCLUSIONSTEVAR oversizing of ≤10% in patients with cTBAD might reduce aortic-related events up to 50%. Consensus on measurement techniques of the pre-dissection aortic diameter and stent graft sizing is of paramount importance.     

Midterm result of custom-made iliac branch device for common iliac aneurysm with and without abdominal aortic aneurysm

Open in a separate window OBJECTIVESAlthough commercial iliac branch devices offer a new and valid endovascular approach to treating iliac aneurysm and effectively preserve antegrade flow of the internal iliac artery, their use may not be suited for all types of challenging anatomy, especially isolated common iliac artery aneurysm. Our custom-made iliac bifurcation device has a unique design and excludes both combined and isolated iliac branch aneurysm. This study validated the efficacy and safety of the custom device by comparing clinical outcomes between groups receiving commercial and custom devices.METHODSData of consecutive patients receiving iliac bifurcation device implantation for iliac aneurysm with or without concomitant endovascular repair for abdominal aortic aneurysm from January 2010 to May 2019 were reviewed.RESULTSIliac bifurcation device implantation with or without concomitant abdominal aortic aneurysm stent grafting was completed in 46 patients (commercial, n = 35; custom, n = 11). No significant differences were observed regarding postoperative complications, occlusion or endoleak. Comparisons of primary (80.8% vs 85.7%, P = 0.88) and secondary (86.5% vs 85.7%, P = 0.85) patency and freedom from reintervention (88.2% vs 100%, P = 0.33), all-cause mortality (78.6% vs 100%, P = 0.25) and aneurysm-related mortality (100% vs 100%, P = 1.00) also indicated no differences at a 5-year surveillance point. Furthermore, the iliac aneurysms of the groups displayed similar shrinkage 1 year after procedures.CONCLUSIONSFor iliac aneurysm, the novel custom-made iliac bifurcation device is an adaptable design not inferior to commercial devices with regard to postoperative complications, bridge occlusion, endoleak and short-term aneurysm remodelling. It provides an alternative for treatment, particularly when certain anatomic challenges are present.Clinical trial registration2018-07-050BC, 2017-01-023ACF.     

Impact of aortic root repair or replacement in severe destructive aortic valve endocarditis with paravalvular abscesses on long-term survival

 Open in a separate windowOBJECTIVESSurgical treatment of destructive infective endocarditis consists of extensive debridement followed by root repair or replacement. However, it remains unknown whether 1 is superior to the other. We aimed to analyse whether long-term results were better after root repair or replacement in patients with root endocarditis.METHODSA total of 148 consecutive patients with root endocarditis treated with surgery from 1997 to 2020 at our department were included. Patients were divided into 2 groups: aortic root repair (n = 85) or root replacement using xenografts or homografts (n = 63).RESULTSPatients receiving aortic root repair showed significantly better long-term survival compared to patients receiving aortic root replacement (log-rank: P = 0.037). There was no difference in terms of freedom from valvular reoperations among both treatment groups (log-rank: P = 0.58). Patients with aortic root repair showed higher freedom from recurrent endocarditis compared to patients with aortic root replacement (log-rank: P = 0.022). Patients with aortic root repair exhibited higher event-free survival (defined as a combination end point of freedom from death, valvular reoperation or recurrent endocarditis) compared to patients receiving aortic root replacement (log-rank: P = 0.022). Age increased the risk of mortality with 1.7% per year. Multi-variable adjusted statistical analysis revealed improved long-term event-free survival after aortic root repair (hazards ratio: 0.57, 95% confidence interval: 0.39–0.95; P = 0.031).CONCLUSIONSAortic root repair and replacement are feasible options for the surgical treatment of root endocarditis and are complementary methods, depending on the extent of infection. Patients with less advanced infection have a more favourable prognosis.Clinical trial registrationUN4232 382/3.1 (retrospective study).     

The effect of aortic arch replacement on pulse wave velocity after surgery

Open in a separate window OBJECTIVESThe purpose of this study was to investigate the changes in pulse wave velocity (PWV) after aortic arch repair and to evaluate possible perioperative factors associated with an increase in PWV.METHODSEighty-nine patients with preoperative and postoperative PWV measurements who underwent surgical treatment for true aortic arch aneurysm were included in the study. The patients were treated by prosthetic graft replacement with or without the frozen elephant trunk technique or by hybrid surgery with a stent graft. Changes in PWV and perioperative factors were evaluated.RESULTSFifty-one patients were treated by prosthetic graft replacement; 22 patients were treated with the frozen elephant trunk procedure; and 16 patients were treated by hybrid surgery. A significant increase in PWV was observed in patients undergoing surgical treatment for aortic arch aneurysm regardless of the types of operations performed (all treatments: before, 1797 ± 397.8 cm/s vs after, 2061 ± 600.4 cm/s, P < 0.001; graft replacement: before, 1769 ± 398.1 cm/s vs after, 1895 ± 459.0 cm/s, P = 0.004; frozen elephant trunk procedure: before, 1911 ± 461.9 cm/s vs after 2307 ± 826.9 cm/s, P = 0.005; hybrid surgery: before, 1732 ± 273.3 cm/s vs after, 2254 ± 484.6 cm/s, P < 0.001). Differences in PWV were largest in patients treated with hybrid surgery and lowest in those treated with graft replacement (P = 0.002). In univariate analysis, an increase in PWV was positively correlated with treatment length (r = 0.41; P < 0.001); the use of a postoperative beta blocker was associated with a smaller increase in postoperative PWV (with: 165.0 ± 371.92 cm/s vs without: 439.4 ± 530.38 cm/s, P = 0.005). Multivariate analysis suggested that treatment length (coefficient 3.31, 95% confidence interval 0.056–6.562, P = 0.046) and postoperative beta blocker (coefficient −220.08, 95% confidence interval −401.972 to −38.183, P = 0.018) were factors independently associated with changes in PWV.CONCLUSIONSThere was a significant increase in PWV after aortic arch repair. Treatment length and use of postoperative beta blockers were factors associated with changes in postoperative PWV. Minimizing the treatment length and using postoperative beta blockers may attenuate the effects of prostheses on postoperative PWV.     

Exclusion of complex aortic aneurysm with chimney endovascular aortic repair is applicable in a minority of patients treated with fenestrated endografts

OBJECTIVESThe Medtronic Endurant II stent graft has recently received Conformité Européenne (CE) approval for the use in chimney endovascular aortic repair (ChEVAR) for the treatment for juxtarenal aortic aneurysms. The aim of this study was to assess the percentage of patients treated by fenestrated endovascular repair who would have been alternatively suitable for the treatment by the CE approved Medtronic ChEVAR. Open in a separate windowMETHODSPreoperative computed tomography scans of 100 patients who underwent fenestrated endovascular aortic repair (FEVAR) between April 2013 and February 2017 were retrospectively assessed for the applicability of the ChEVAR technique according to the Medtronic instructions for use. Eligibility criteria included an aortic neck diameter of 19–30 mm, a minimum infrarenal neck length of 2 mm, a total proximal sealing zone of at least 15 mm, thrombus in the aortic neck in ˂25% of the circumference, and maximum aortic angulations of 60° in the infrarenal, 45° in the suprarenal segment and ˂45° above the superior mesenteric artery.RESULTSAccording to CE-approved inclusion criteria, 19 individuals (19%) would have been eligible for ChEVAR. In 81 patients, at least 1 measure was found outside instructions for use: (i) excluding factor was detected in 26 patients, (ii) incongruous measures in 28 patients and in 27 patients, 3–5 measures were outside the instructions for use. The most frequently identified excluding factor was an insufficient infrarenal neck at ˂2 mm length (n = 63; 63%).CONCLUSIONSPatients with juxta- or pararenal aneurysm treated by FEVAR are in 19% of the cases alternatively suitable for the treatment by ChEVAR within CE-approved instructions for use. While ChEVAR is suitable in many emergency cases, FEVAR offers a broader applicability in an elective setting.     

Early aortic growth in acute descending aortic dissection

Open in a separate window OBJECTIVESAcute aortic dissection leads to the destabilization of the aortic wall, followed by an immediate increase in aortic diameter. It remains unclear how the aortic diameter changes during the dissection’s acute and subacute phases. The aim of this study was to evaluate the change in aortic geometry within 30 days after the onset of a descending aortic dissection.METHODSPatients with acute type B and non-A non-B dissection who had at least 2 computed tomography angiography scans obtained within 30 days after the onset of dissection were evaluated. Exclusion criteria were a thrombosed false lumen, connective tissue disorders and endovascular or open aortic repair performed prior to the second computed tomography angiography.RESULTSAmong 190 patients with acute aortic dissection, 42 patients met our inclusion criteria. Their aortic geometry was analysed according to the computed tomography angiography scans obtained between 0–3 (N = 35), 4–7 (N = 9) and 8–30 (N = 12) days after the dissection onset. The highest aortic diameter growth rate was observed in the first quartile of the thoracic aorta and measured 0.66 (0.06; 1.03), 0.29 (−0.01; 0.41) and 0.06 (−0.13; 0.26) mm/day at 0–3, 4–7 and 8–30 days after the dissection, respectively. Proximal entry location (P = 0.037) and entry located at the arch concavity (P = 0.008) were associated with a higher aortic diameter increase.CONCLUSIONSEarly rapid growth occurs during the first week after the descending aortic dissection—most intensely over the first 3 days, and this is associated with the location of the dissection’s entry.     

Actual incidence of cerebral infarction after thoracic endovascular aortic repair: a magnetic resonance imaging study

 Open in a separate windowOBJECTIVESThe actual incidence of cerebral infarction (CI), including asymptomatic infarction, owing to thoracic endovascular aortic repair (TEVAR) has not been reported in detail. This study was performed to investigate the incidence of post-TEVAR CI by using diffusion-weighted magnetic resonance imaging (DW-MRI) and to determine the risk factors for both symptomatic and asymptomatic CI.METHODSWe examined 64 patients undergoing TEVAR at our institute between April 2017 and November 2020. Aortic atheroma was graded from 1 to 5 by preoperative computed tomography. Cerebral DW-MRIs were conducted 2 days after the procedure to diagnose postoperative CI.RESULTSA total of 44 new foci were detected by post-interventional cerebral DW-MRI in 22 patients (34.4%). Only one patient developed a symptomatic stroke (1.6%), and TEVAR was successfully completed in all cases. Debranching of the aortic arch and left subclavian artery occlusion with a vascular plug was performed in 19 (29.7%) and 12 (18.8%) patients, respectively. The number of patients with proximal landing zones 0–2 was significantly higher in the CI group than in the non-CI group (68.2% vs 11.9%; P < 0.001). The following risk factors were identified for asymptomatic CI: aortic arch debranching (P < 0.001), left subclavian artery occlusion (P = 0.001) and grade 4/5 aortic arch atheroma (P = 0.048).CONCLUSIONSOver one-third of the patients examined by cerebral DW-MRI after TEVAR were diagnosed with CI. High-grade atheroma and TEVAR landing in zone 0–2 were found to be positively associated with asymptomatic CI.Clinical trial registration02-014.     

Incidence,follow-up and outcomes of incidental abdominal aortic aneurysms in computed tomography

Open in a separate window OBJECTIVESThe goal of our study was to determine the prevalence of abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAAs) that were incidentally diagnosed by computed tomography applied for different reasons and to discuss the risk factors that may cause AAA. METHODSA total of 5396 abdominal computed tomography examinations were performed, and the 103 incidentally detected AAAs were included in the study. Patients with and without AAA were compared in terms of age, gender, thoracic and abdominal aortic diameters and comorbid diseases.RESULTSThe prevalence of the AAAs was 1.9%. Old age and male gender were significantly different between the groups (P < 0.001). The reason for applying computed tomography in 52 (50.5%) patients with AAA was associated with malignancy. In the evaluation of all patients in the study, the aortic diameter was determined to be larger in patients with malignancy than in patients without malignancy (18.07 ± 4.1 mm vs 17.7 ± 3.9 mm, respectively; P < 0.001). The thoracic aortic diameter was wider in patients with AAA compared to that in patients without AAA (37.2 ± 3.9 mm vs 33.9 ± 5.2 mm, respectively; P < 0.001). The presence of coronary artery disease, diabetes mellitus, hypertension and a history of smoking in patients with AAA was significantly different from that of patients without AAA (P < 0.001). There was no significant difference between the groups in terms of hyperlipidaemia and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (P = 0.52 and P = 0.15, respectively).CONCLUSIONSScreening of older men with diseases such as malignancy, hypertension, diabetes mellitus and coronary artery disease for AAA is important for the early diagnosis and treatment of this disease.